Centrum für Angewandte Nanotechnologie

Centrum für Angewandte Nanotechnologie (CAN) was founded in 2005 in Hamburg, Germany, as a public-private partnership to advance nanotechnology research and provide contract R&D services. In January 2018, CAN GmbH was integrated into the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Polymer Research (IAP) and now operates as the Fraunhofer Center for Applied Nanotechnology CAN. The center specializes in the synthesis, characterization, and application of inorganic nanoparticle systems and nanocomposites. Its technology is utilized across various sectors, including life sciences (for diagnostics, biomarkers, and targeted drug delivery), home and personal care, and functional materials. CAN's proprietary semiconductor nanoparticles are commercially distributed worldwide under the brand name CANdot.